This annual Mountain Farm Festival celebrates the rich history and culture unique to North Georgia. Guests of all ages will experience immersive learning, getting an up-close look at many of the skills necessary for life in the North Georgia mountains in the late 1800s. Each year, more than 600 guests attend and enjoy the farm.
Hardman Farm State Historic Site will host its Mountain Farm Celebration on Saturday, October 26th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The farm is located at 143 Highway 17 Sautee Nacoochee, GA in White County.
“This event is a great way to watch history come to life”, said Sarah Summers, Hardman Farm’s assistant manager. “Visitors can try many hands-on skills that were once needed for everyday life like making apple cider in a hand-cranked press, milling corn, and churning butter. This event is like stepping back in time.”
Demonstrations such as making black powder and moonshine, quilting, spinning, and weaving are only some of the ways visitors can enjoy learning. Yummy homemade biscuits from the restored wood-fired stove in the historic Hardman Farm kitchen will fill your tummy, and cornbread cooked over an open fire is always a favorite.
“There’s so much to do; it makes for a great day of family entertainment. There’s something for everyone,” noted Summers.
If you’d like to try your hand at gem mining or play some old-fashioned lawn games like cornhole and horseshoes, this day on the farm is for you.
The 150-year-old horse barn is open for animal enthusiasts to pet and enjoy the farm animals. Traditional craft vendors will be on hand with Appalachian crafts and handiworks like lathe-turned bowls, wooden jewelry, crocheted and quilted items, and much more. Local food vendors will serve up fall favorites like BBQ, funnel cakes, boiled peanuts, and baked goods.
In addition to the various activities, the main floor of the 1870s-era Hardman Farm mansion will be open along with the impressive 100+-year-old dairy barn and other outbuildings.
“We have folks come by the farm weekly who remark that they’ve passed Hardman Farm lots of times, but have not had the chance to stop in,” said Summers.
“This is your chance. This is a great opportunity to explore the farm, see the mansion, and really celebrate mountain life.”
Admission to the festivities is $8 per person (children 5 and under free). For more information, contact the Hardman Farm Visitors Center at 706-878-1077. You can also find Hardman Farm on Facebook!
